Chapter 1: Inconvenience
The city breathed with a life of its own, an ever-present hum that reverberated through the narrow alleys and concrete jungles. Adrian sat on a weathered wooden bench, the chill of the evening air seeping through his layers of clothing. He pulled his dark hooded jacket tighter around him, its oversized form swallowing his slender frame. Beside him, a stray looking cat lay curled up, its soft purring providing a rare moment of comfort.
Adrian took a bite of the steaming bun he held, the warmth spreading through his fingers. He gazed at the industrial surroundings—the rusting air conditioning units, the tangled mess of electrical meters, and the faint flicker of a dying streetlamp. This part of the city, forgotten by most, felt like home to him. It was here, amidst the decay and neglect, that he found solace from the shadows of his past.
He absentmindedly touched the bandage on his left cheek, a stark reminder of recent events. The wound had healed, but the memory remained raw. His light hazel eyes, usually distant and introspective, scanned the empty street. He was always on edge, always waiting for the next piece of his past to catch up with him.
The cat stirred, lifting its head to look at him with piercing green eyes. Adrian smiled faintly and scratched behind its ear. "Guess it's just you and me tonight, huh?" he murmured. The cat, as if understanding, nestled closer.
The sound of footsteps echoed through the alley, drawing Adrian's attention. He tensed, his senses sharpening. In this part of town, strangers were seldom a good sign. A figure emerged from the shadows, cloaked in dark. Adrian's heart raced, but he remained outwardly calm, ready for whatever might come.
The figure stopped a few feet away, the dim light casting a long shadow across the ground. "Adrian Mercer?" the voice was low, almost a whisper.
Adrian's grip tightened around the remains of his bun. "Who's asking?"
The figure stepped closer, revealing a young woman with striking features and a determined expression. "My name is Elena. I need your help."
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